What power do I have to influence this world?
I know what you mean. More and more with each passing year… or month… or week it seems, some giant company has absorbed yet another company. Viable competitors in the world’s marketplaces decrease further and further as the big name operations bloat with ever growing monopolization of economy, government, healthcare, or surveillance.
In comparison, you, the little guy, seem powerless, fallen already through some crevice, deep down into the machinery of a nameless world system. You wonder what possible influence you can have amid this seeming freefall? You ask, “What power do I have to influence this world?”
For the Christian there are two possible answers. Each is both concise and absolute: 1. None. 2. Infinite.
Of our own selves we are weak. Not many of us would claim to be wise; few are influential or born to nobility. Some of us may even be victims of prejudice, even despised. How can we possibly influence this world?
Last Saturday, when it became clear that the Democratic party had won the U.S. election, President Elect Joe Biden addressed the nation. Among his statements he said, “We will lead America not by the example of our power but by the power of our example.” I rather liked that, for it reminded me of the strategy of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Before leaving this earth Jesus said to His faithful, “You are the salt of the earth…” (Matt. 5:13). Like tiny grains believers are scattered throughout the planet, throughout the world and its ever-growing, ever-grabbing world system. Influencers empowered by the Infinite! In fact, by virtue of our awareness of our own powerlessness we become the Almighty Father’s first pick in turning our world upside-down for Christ! Hear Paul’s words to the Corinthians…
“Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him. ” (1 Cor. 1:26-29).
Your example, your Christ-empowered godly living, your words of praise and testimony to the Lord in your experience, your heart at peace amid social storm, your devotion to worship, fellowship, service, love, scripture and prayer are all influencers… not examples of any personal power, for you have none, but powerful examples of the Infinite Power of Christ.
Take heart believer… and
Press on…
Got a question? Use the Contact page and send It to me. We’ll search the Word for God’s answer.
thebrokenrunner 